Chancellor James Harris tells staff that council has “endorsed in principle”  a standing committee of convocation and work is underway

This was one of three proposals adopted by what was either a unique, or at least very rare meeting of convocation (mainly graduates and academic staff) convened by Interim VC  Simon Evans.

Whatever Professor Evans’ intent, the opportunity gave members an opportunity to raise concerns with Mr Harris leadership and long-standing disquiet at the state of  the university (CMM December 5).

A second proposal was for council and senior management to “strengthen accountability” to the university community. And the five-part third, included an ombudsman and appointment of a new chancellor.

Mr Harris’s message does not mention what all the proposals are but it states they will be “submitted to council for consideration.”

Speaking at convocation academic Tim Battin pretty much explained where this all came from. “It has long been the view of staff of the university that the council regards the staff as the problem and in need of a shake-up, to which the constant and pointless restructures over 20 years are testament.”